First known case of severe mpox virus strain detected in NYC

The first known case of a severe strain of the mpox virus has been detected in New York City — and health officials are recommending those at risk get vaccinated.

The case of “mpox clade I” is travel-related, with the person who tested positive having recently traveled internationally, the city Department of Health announced Friday.

“There is no known local transmission of mpox clade I in New York City and the risk remains low for New Yorkers,” Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin said in a statement.

“The NYC Health Department recommends that New Yorkers who are at risk for mpox receive and complete the two-dose vaccine series that works to prevent mpox.”  

There are two types of the mpox virus, clade I and clade II — the latter responsible for a global outbreak that caused nearly 4,000 cases in the city in 2022.

But the clade I strain is believed to be more transmissible and cause more severe illness than its counterpart, according to the state Health Department.

Most mpox infections in the US have affected gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men — though anyone can get the virus, officials cautioned.

Formerly known as monkeypox, the virus is often transmitted during close, intimate contact, such as sex or face-to-face contact.

It can spread through respiratory droplets, saliva or mucus from someone carrying the virus, as well as through direct contact with sores, scabs and rashes caused by mpox, according to health officials.

While less likely, mpox can also be transmitted by touching fabrics or surfaces used by an infected person.

Mpox typically causes extremely painful bumps or rashes on or around the genitals or on hands, feet, chest or face that can leave permanent scarring. Those who are infected can also experience flu-like symptoms.

The virus is rarely fatal, and infections are typically mild, but serious illness can occur in older adults, young children, pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

Most people recover in a couple of weeks without needing medical treatment, according to the health department.

Health officials urged those at particular risk for contracting mpox to get the two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine series.